Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera with Micro Four Thirds Lens Mount

Expert Review

One of the first things which jumps out about this pocket camcorder from Blackmagic is the RAW shooting codec for capturing the maximum amount of image information; this allows the luxury of post-production manipulation to achieve the exact look desired. It also records in ProRes 422 (HQ), a codec with professional quality compression. The camera really requires some stabilization because the CMOS sensor is prone to jello-cam’ when the camera moves.

The camera has a wide dynamic range but it doesn’t handle low light as well as it should but the RAW helps recover some highlights and shadows. Users should note the RAW workflow needs some getting used to and this isn’t a camera built for the casual user. The point-and-shoot looking body is all metal and heavier than other pocket cameras and also requires a lens to go on its Micro Four Thirds mount making it much bigger. But considering the price and portability, the Pocket Cinema Camera is a great starter tool for beginning filmmakers or experienced users looking for a compact, personal camera.Rating: 5/5